Staying healthy during the holidays does not mean misery and deprivation. Keep reading for 5 simple tips to implement to avoid the dreaded holiday weight gain.
Don't wait for January 1 - progress can be made right now with a few small changes. Are you in a holding pattern? Putting everything off until there's a better time? Or wait, maybe you think January 1! That's it!
What's so magical about January 1? It's a Saturday. It's not even a Monday. And you know what you think about Mondays….how many times have you said to yourself, “I'll start on Monday."
But the truth is….if you do the math, there are around 100 “normal meals” and about 12 “holiday meals over the next 37 days.
Do yourself a favor and don't label this last quarter of the year as “just the holidays”. You can do things differently this year!
Picture it now, you wake up on the morning of January 1 slip into your favorite workout leggings and immediately get ready to get your sweat on. It's part of who you are now. You've learned over the past few months that when you treat your body well, you feel amazing. You reach over and pick up the heavier set of dumbbells your hubby got you for Christmas, and you can't wait to use them today. You are at ease, you remember you have a few yummy macro-friendly meals ready to pop into the oven for later. You can't wait to enjoy a little football with your family. It's incredible to feel in control of your food choices and feel so confident in your own skin. You smile and think to yourself how smart you were. You started to take care of yourself way back in November instead of waiting until January 1. You can't wait to see even more changes as you approach spring break!! Now this is a picture you'd like to see, isn't it?
And you can, if you start today!
Here are my 5 best tips for staying healthy during the holidays
- Keep your normal routine when you can. Now that you’ve gotten clear on your calendar. You can maintain your typical food plan and workout schedule on non-holiday days. If you stay consistent on the non-holiday days, you’ll still make progress.
- Make simple swaps! You might be surprised by some of the yummy macro-friendly recipes you can make in place of the typical not-so-great for you holiday dishes. And honestly, roast up a pan full of amazing veggies - super delish and filling! Need some ideas, grab some of my favorite simple holiday recipes here.
- Drink water! Don’t forget to hydrate. You do so many good things for you when make drinking water a priority. And if you decide to include a few more indulgences this holiday season, water is helpful in fighting off exhaustion and can help control cravings.
- Memories over macros! On the holidays, ENJOY your favorites. Having a healthy mindset around food and treats is the best thing you can do for your health long-term. Remind yourself there are no “bad foods” and that you are NOT being “bad” by having grandma’s pecan pie, after all, she made it with love, just for you. You can have a piece and enjoy it, knowing you’ll be back to your normal eating habits the following day.
Make an effort NOW. Don't wait.
I encourage you to take the steps NOW to begin your health journey. There’s no need to wait until January 1. You can make a few small changes to your food choices and exercise routine and you can begin looking and feeling your best right now!
Cheering you on!
P.S. If you are ready to get control of your health and wellness, but need guidance and support, I am here to help. Click here to learn more about working with me as your coach.